Saffron is one of the most valuable and rare spices in the world. It has been used for centuries due to its intense aroma and positive effects on health. However, due to its high price and value, fake saffron has become a widespread problem in the market. So, how can we tell real saffron from fake saffron? How can we avoid fake saffron?
Saffron is one of the most valuable and rare spices in the world. It has been used for centuries due to its intense aroma and positive effects on health. However, due to its high price and value, fake saffron has become a widespread problem in the market. So, how can we tell real saffron from fake saffron? How can we avoid fake saffron?
There are several basic ways to identify real saffron. Colour, smell, taste, and how it behaves when in contact with water are the most helpful indicators.
Real saffron takes time to release its colour. When you add a pinch of saffron to a glass of water, the water should turn reddish-orange. Fake saffron, on the other hand, immediately releases a dark yellow or orange colour. The colour of real saffron spreads slowly and has a distinctive intensity.
Real saffron has a distinctive, slightly sweet and spicy smell. It can be described as a mixture of intense honey, herbs and a hint of earth. Fake saffron is usually odourless or has a chemical smell.
Real saffron has a bitter taste. If you place a piece of saffron on your tongue, you should taste bitterness. Saffron should not be sweet. If you detect a sweet taste, additional ingredients may have been mixed into the saffron.
Counterfeit saffron is often sold as threads dyed with food colouring or mixed with other spices. Some of the most effective ways to identify counterfeit saffron are as follows:
When a pinch of saffron is added to a glass of hot water, real saffron retains its integrity in the water for a long time and its colour does not spread immediately. However, fake saffron releases its colour as soon as it comes into contact with water and can stain.
Place saffron threads on a white piece of paper and drip a little water on them. If the paper immediately turns red or orange, this indicates that the saffron is fake.
Real saffron has a thin and slightly curved structure. When examined under a magnifying glass, its fibres appear to have a capillary-like structure at the ends. Fake saffron may have a flat and artificial texture.
If you want to buy real saffron, you should purchase it from reliable sources. Counterfeit saffron is most commonly found in open markets or places that sell unlabelled products.
It is recommended to purchase saffron from reliable online sellers, spice shops, and organic product stores. You can determine its authenticity by checking if it has an ISO 3632 certification.
Authentic saffron is typically sold in glass or airtight containers. The packaging should clearly indicate the origin, contents, and purity percentage.
Saffron is one of the most expensive spices per kilogram. Saffron sold at prices significantly lower than market rates is likely counterfeit. Selling authentic saffron at low prices is illogical.
To identify genuine saffron, pay attention to its colour, smell, taste, and interaction with water. Counterfeit saffron is often mixed with food colouring, other plants, or additives. You can ensure the purity of saffron by purchasing from reliable sellers and certified products.
If you're looking for the highest quality and genuine saffron, try Noura Natural's premium-quality saffron! 🌿💛
